I'm looking at liberal arts colleges but am really passionate about math. Are there any liberal arts schools known for having excellent math departments? Any personal experiences would be awesome to hear about!
Absolutely, there are many liberal arts colleges known for their strong math programs. Here are some you might consider:
1. Williams College: Widely known for its mathematics department, it boasts a high number of undergraduate math majors and a rich offering of math courses. Moreover, its SMALL (Summer Mathematics at Williams College) program is a nine-week residential summer program where undergraduates engage in mathematical research.
2. Harvey Mudd College: As part of the Claremont Consortium, Harvey Mudd has an intensive and exceptional mathematics program. It's especially known for its math competitions team and Mudd Math Fun Facts.
3. Pomona College: Also part of the Claremont Consortium, Pomona's mathematics department is well-regarded. It offers a comprehensive curriculum covering pure, applied, and mathematical computer science.
4. Amherst College: Amherst has a flexible math major that allows students to concentrate on pure or applied mathematics, or a blend.
5. Carleton College: Known for its strong focus on teaching, Carleton has an excellent mathematics department where students get a lot of individual attention.
6. Swarthmore College: Swarthmore's Department of Mathematics and Statistics is renowned for its dedication to both teaching and research.
Remember, "excellence" in a math program can mean different things to different people, and it's about more than just prestige. You might want to visit the department's web pages, reach out to current students or professors, or sit in on a class if possible. This can help you get a feel for the culture, the attitudes towards collaboration vs. competition, the availability of undergraduate research opportunities, etc. The best math program for you is going to be the one that is the best fit for you personally and academically.
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